What are seed treatments used for in cotton cultivation?

Seed treatments in cotton cultivation are specifically designed to protect seeds from pests and diseases. By applying various chemical or biological agents to the seed coat, these treatments create a protective barrier or provide systemic defense mechanisms that help prevent seedling diseases caused by fungi, bacteria, and nematodes. Additionally, these treatments can deter insect pests that might harm the seeds during germination and early growth stages.

While enhancing germination rates and promoting faster growth are important aspects of successful cotton cultivation, these are typically not the primary focus of seed treatments. Instead, the primary goal is to safeguard the seed until it establishes itself in the soil, thereby ensuring a healthy start and reducing the risk of crop loss due to early-stage threats. Better soil adhesion is also not a direct function of seed treatments; rather, it relates more to seed bed preparation and soil management practices. Hence, the emphasis on pest and disease protection aligns most closely with the intended use of seed treatments in cotton agriculture.